The BHP files: World’s biggest miner BHP backtracks on climate action with key projects put on ice, leaked documents reveal
BHP, the world’s largest miner, has delayed or cancelled several major projects aimed at cutting emissions in its Pilbara iron‑ore operations. Internal documents reveal the company’s decision to shelve a 50‑MW solar farm, a 20‑MW battery, and a 1.7‑million‑tonne‑per‑year emissions‑reducing plant, d…
BHP, the world’s biggest mining company, has quietly put on ice a series of projects that could have dramatically reduced emissions from its iron‑ore operations in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. Internal documents leaked to the Guardian and ABC’s Four Corners show the company halted a 50‑megawatt solar farm and a 20‑megawatt battery at its Jimblebar mine, and abandoned a plant that would have cut 1.7 million tonnes of CO₂ per year.
What Happened?
In mid‑2023, BHP’s board approved and funded a solar‑battery project at Jimblebar. Within weeks, the company shelved the plan, citing a “low probability of success” and slow progress from truck manufacturers. The decision was made despite internal criticism and a shareholder vote that overwhelmingly backed the project. The company also delayed a massive 500‑MW renewable‑energy scheme—comprising solar, wind and battery storage—that could have supplied power to a small city and supplied up to 70% of the energy used by BHP’s inland power grid.
Why It Matters
BHP’s actions come at a time when Australia is under pressure to cut emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030. The company’s delayed projects could jeopardise national climate commitments and set a negative example for the mining sector.
Background on BHP’s Climate Commitments
Since 2019, BHP has positioned itself as a climate leader, announcing a 30% emissions cut by 2030 and a net‑zero target for 2050. The company has highlighted the need for “the biggest global mobilisation since World War II” to tackle climate change. Yet, the leaked documents reveal a stark contrast between public statements and internal strategy. A memo dated May 2025 notes that BHP no longer views its current decarbonisation plan as achievable, proposing delays for electrifying truck and rail fleets until 2035 or 2040, or even no action at all.
Key Projects Affected
- 50‑MW solar farm and 20‑MW battery at Jimblebar mine – shelved after board approval.
- 1.7 million‑tonne‑per‑year emissions‑reducing plant – quietly dumped.
- 500‑MW solar, wind and battery storage scheme – no capital funding until 2031 at the earliest.
- Electric haul truck programme – delayed; BHP continues to purchase diesel trucks worth over $500 million.
- Proposed new mine at Ministers North – diesel trucks planned for operation.
Industry and Government Reactions
Environmental groups and experts warn that BHP’s delays could undermine Australia’s 2030 targets. Tim Buckley of Climate Energy Finance called the company “putting Australia’s emissions targets at risk.” Naomi Hogan of the Australian Centre for Corporate Responsibility criticised BHP for “refusing to act on its own policy.” The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia noted the complexity of electrifying haulage fleets, but urged big miners to accelerate investment in low‑emission technologies.
What’s Next?
BHP maintains that progress toward net‑zero depends on technological readiness, citing the lack of 240‑ton battery‑electric haul trucks in Australia. The company is trialling battery‑electric trucks and rail in the Pilbara and uses solar to power 30% of Port Hedland operations. However, without new capital for the 500‑MW project and continued diesel purchases, the company’s emissions trajectory may rise between fiscal years 2025 and 2030.
Stakeholders will watch closely as BHP’s strategy unfolds, and whether the company will realign its actions with its stated climate goals remains uncertain.
Why It Matters
As the mining sector contributes significantly to global emissions, BHP’s decisions set a precedent for other large miners. The company’s delayed projects could hinder Australia’s climate ambitions and influence investor confidence in the sector’s sustainability trajectory.
“BHP is fundamentally putting Australia’s emissions targets at risk,” said Tim Buckley of the think‑tank Climate Energy Finance.
With the world’s largest miner pulling back on climate initiatives, the stakes for Australia’s environmental commitments have never been higher.
Why it matters
BHP’s retreat from key decarbonisation projects threatens Australia’s 2030 climate targets and signals a broader reluctance within the mining sector to meet urgent emissions reductions.
Key points
- BHP shelved a 50‑MW solar farm and 20‑MW battery after board approval.
- A 1.7 million‑tonne‑per‑year emissions‑reducing plant was quietly abandoned.
- A 500‑MW renewable scheme will not receive funding until at least 2031.
- BHP continues to buy diesel trucks despite plans for electric fleets.
- The company’s actions could jeopardise Australia’s 2030 emissions‑cut targets.
Frequently asked questions
Why did BHP cancel the solar farm at Jimblebar?
Internal memos cited a low probability of success and slow progress from truck manufacturers, leading to the project’s shelving.
What impact could this have on Australia’s climate goals?
Delaying major emission‑reducing projects may hinder the country’s ability to meet its 43% cut below 2005 levels by 2030.
Is BHP still investing in renewable energy?
BHP is trialling battery‑electric trucks and rail in the Pilbara and uses solar for 30% of Port Hedland operations, but major projects face funding delays.
